Crowds of more than 30,000 are expected to attend the seventh annual Orange Darlington Festival.

There will be a variety of free entertainment in Darlington town centre during the late August Bank Holiday weekend.

street theatre, tribute bands and musicians from around the world will be on stage throughout the weekend.

There will also be a talent competition for amateur singers, dancers and comedians in the town.

The event is organised by Darlington Borough Council and Orange who use the festival to thank their staff and the wider community for their support.

The weekend is supported by The Northern Echo and Century FM and the fun will be kicked off by DJ Paul 'Goffy' Gough on Saturday August 24.

The weekend of events will finish with a fireworks display on Bank Holiday Monday.

Councillor Dorothy Long said: "This year's festival promises to be the best yet.

"The programme has entertainment for people of all ages and is a true family event."

To find out more about this year's festival call (01325) 388410.